I nearly bought a $300 DAC before I realized my 10-year-old audio interface does everything I need

As an audio enthusiast, I love gear and try to stay ahead of the curve to get the best equipment my budget allows. I was understandably tempted by the affordable $300 Topping DX5 II desktop DAC and headphone amplifier, packed with modern features, compared with my Steinberg UR22 Mk II, which, after a decade, is getting a bit long in the tooth. But do the upgrades that would really benefit my sound require completely new hardware?

My current DAC handles the audio quality I need

My 10-year-old interface isn’t as outdated as I first thought

Before making an impulse buy, I thought carefully about what my trusty old UR22 still offers. This USB audio interface, with 24-bit/192 kHz audio support, two microphone inputs, and a dedicated headphone output, has served me well as a versatile way to connect audio equipment to a succession of desktop computers and laptops over the years. As it also handles most of my home audio playback, it is likely my most-used piece of hardware.

The Topping DX5 is a different type of device. This dedicated DAC (digital-to-analog converter) and headphone amplifier is designed primarily for listening, not recording. With support for PCM audio up to 32-bit/768 kHz and DSD512, its specifications look impressive compared with my older Steinberg.

But when it comes to quality, exactly how high do you need to go? My UR22’s 24-bit/192 kHz capability is already more than adequate for ordinary music playback. And while newer hardware might offer better sound quality and less distortion, that doesn’t guarantee an audible improvement in my setup.

The new DAC’s advantages go beyond just better sound

More power, EQ, and Bluetooth make a significant difference

Here’s the thing: The DX5 II has some seriously compelling features that would appeal to any audio fanatic. For starters, it delivers much more power than the UR22’s headphone output and includes parametric EQ, Bluetooth connectivity, and convenient desktop controls, all in a beautifully designed chassis with a bright LCD and a refreshingly minimalist layout.

Compared to the slightly dated UR22 mkII, these are all features I could use; however, I had to weigh the benefits against what is missing:

The most glaring omission is the lack of audio inputs, so I would still need to use the UR22 (or similar) as an input device. The DX5 II offers more listening-focused features, but the Steinberg has recording capabilities its newer rival lacks.

EQ can improve listening, but music production is different

I can recreate some of those upgrades without buying new hardware

While the DX5 II’s built-in EQ initially appealed to me, I decided to experiment with similar adjustments on my MacBook to achieve the same results. I already have configurable speakers through my KRK Rokit 5 control panels, so I wanted a straightforward EQ for tweaking music on the fly.

I can also easily quit the app when mixing or mastering, as I want my headphones and KRK Rokit 5 speakers to reproduce the audio as neutrally and predictably as possible. If I boost the bass through the DX5 II’s built-in EQ, I might compensate by reducing bass in my mix, only to discover that it sounds thin on another system.

I found SystemEQ for Mac, which is ideal for adding EQ easily, so I can adjust frequency ranges and experiment with how my headphones sound without buying another device. And I can always connect Bluetooth headphones directly to the Mac when I want to listen wirelessly. While software has its limitations when it comes to power output, it offers several free advantages without replacing hardware.

Here’s when I’d choose to upgrade

Spend money for a real limitation, not a better spec sheet

I’m not saying we should all keep our audio equipment forever. If your headphones need more power, you want built-in EQ and Bluetooth, or your existing interface has developed problems, an upgrade makes perfect sense. The same goes if you require different connectivity or better/more convenient controls.

But my Steinberg provides clean playback, sufficient headphone volume, and the recording connections I need, so replacing it purely for higher sample-rate support seems unnecessary. I can experiment with other variables to improve my sound, including EQ, speaker placement, and equipment configuration, before spending money.

Better audio starts with understanding what you actually need

The Topping DX5 is a capable device for someone who requires clean, professional-sounding audio without needing to connect instruments or microphones. But my decade-old Steinberg UR22 mkII still handles high-resolution playback and recording, and I haven’t identified a limitation that justifies replacing it. I’ll keep experimenting with software EQ for listening while keeping my music production monitoring as neutral as possible, with a view to upgrading to a higher-quality audio interface later on.